George Boyle
Planning a wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging, with venue closures, limited guest counts, and dress boutique closures. However, the wedding industry has adapted to offer creative solutions for trying on wedding dresses, such as virtual appointments and at-home try-ons. Some boutiques may also be open with limited capacity and specific guidelines for appointments and guests. It is essential to prioritize health and safety while navigating the challenges of wedding planning during this unprecedented time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Trying on wedding dresses at home | Possible |
| Trying on wedding dresses in-store | Possible, but with limited guests |
| Booking appointments | Recommended |
| Browsing in-store | Not recommended |
| Virtual appointments | Possible |
| At-home try-on locations | Can be anywhere |
| Wait times | May be long |
| Appointment cancellation | 48 hours in advance |
| Appointment fees | £25.00 for a Saturday, £15.00 for a weekday |
| Live-streaming the wedding | Possible |
| Wedding dress delivery | Possible |
| Wedding dress ordering | At least 8 months in advance |
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What You'll Learn
Trying on wedding dresses at home
Planning a wedding during the COVID-19 pandemic can be challenging, with many dress boutiques and stores closed. However, you can still try on wedding dresses at home with the help of virtual appointments offered by some stores. Here are some tips to guide you through the process:
Know Your Options and Style Preferences:
The first step is to explore your options and identify your style preferences. Consider the strap styles, dress colour, and type of skirt you prefer. Do you want a simple dress with minimal detailing or something with more embellishments like tulle and beading? The season of your wedding can also guide your choices; for example, a long-sleeved dress for a winter wedding or a backless design for summertime.
Book a Virtual Appointment:
Once you have a general idea of your dream dress style, it's time to book a virtual appointment. Most virtual appointments will involve an initial consultation about your wedding day vision and theme. This helps the attendant select dresses that align with your wedding's aesthetic. During the appointment, you'll be guided through the store via webcam to browse and select dresses to try on.
Prepare for Your Appointment:
Wear nude, seamless undergarments, as you likely won't need a bra with most wedding dresses. Bring your closest friends or family members who can guide you and provide honest opinions. Remember to limit the number of guests to ensure a safe and focused experience. Avoid heavy makeup, especially foundation, as it may stain the dresses.
Understand the Timeline and Logistics:
Start the process early, ideally 8+ months before your wedding, especially if you're opting for a custom dress. Contact nearby shops to inquire about their wait times for appointments and delivery. This will help you plan accordingly and manage your expectations.
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Virtual appointments
During the video call, the stylist will present a selection of gowns and discuss your likes and dislikes. They can also grab new styles if needed. From there, you can narrow down your choices and, in some cases, pick up your favourites curbside to try on at home.
Some shops even offer a 'Try At Home' experience, sending dresses, clips, measuring tape, and even an "I said yes!" sign to your home, allowing you to feel the comfort of wearing the dress before committing to a purchase.
While virtual appointments may not have been what you initially envisioned for wedding dress shopping, they can be a great way to gather information and connect with a stylist before an in-person appointment. They can also be a convenient option for revisiting styles and answering any final questions before you say yes to your dress.
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Safety measures in boutiques
The COVID-19 pandemic has altered the wedding dress shopping experience, with boutiques implementing various safety measures to keep their customers safe. Here are some of the safety protocols you can expect when trying on wedding dresses during the pandemic:
Appointment-Only System: Many boutiques now operate on an appointment-only basis to control the number of people in the store and maintain social distancing. It is essential to book an appointment before visiting a boutique.
Health and Safety Protocols: Boutiques have implemented rigorous hygiene plans, including providing hand sanitizers throughout the store and in fitting rooms, regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, and practicing social distancing when assisting brides.
Guest Limits: To maintain social distancing and reduce congestion in the store, boutiques may limit the number of guests a bride can bring to her appointment. Some boutiques may allow only one guest, in addition to the bride, during the appointment.
Virtual Appointments: Some boutiques offer virtual appointments where brides can browse and select dresses online before visiting the store. This helps reduce the time spent in the store and minimizes the risk of exposure.
Extended Production Times: Due to the pandemic, there may be delays in dress production and delivery. Brides should be prepared for extended production times and plan their dress shopping accordingly. It is recommended to start looking for a dress 8-12 months before the wedding to accommodate any unforeseen delays.
At-Home Try-On Options: Some boutiques offer at-home try-on experiences, allowing brides to try on dresses in the comfort of their own homes. This option provides a safe and convenient alternative to in-store appointments.
It is important to contact the boutique beforehand to understand their specific safety measures and protocols. By following these safety guidelines, boutiques aim to provide a safe and enjoyable wedding dress shopping experience for brides during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Planning a wedding during COVID-19
Be Flexible and Strategic: The pandemic has disrupted the wedding industry, causing venue closures, limited guest counts, and postponements. Strategic planning well in advance is crucial for couples aiming to wed in the near future. Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and consider alternative options like livestreaming your wedding or opting for an intimate elopement.
Stay Informed and Adaptable: Keep yourself updated with the latest guidelines and restrictions. Understand that plans may need to change at the last minute due to evolving COVID-19 situations. Embrace flexibility and be open to different ideas and solutions.
Connect with Vendors: Many venues and vendors are facing challenges accommodating the surge in demand from postponed weddings. Communicate openly with your vendors about their COVID-19 protocols and contract clauses. Ask about their availability, safety measures, and any additional COVID-related fees for testing, early check-ins, or enhanced cleaning procedures.
Manage Guest Expectations: Your guest list may not look as you initially envisioned. Be prepared for potential insensitive comments from friends and family. Prioritize the people closest to you and consider livestreaming your wedding for those who cannot attend. Encourage guests to follow the dress code and participate virtually using your wedding hashtag.
Explore Virtual Options: Take advantage of virtual appointments and online resources. Many boutiques offer virtual consultations, allowing you to browse and try on wedding dresses from the comfort of your home. Utilize online platforms like Pinterest and Instagram to create vision boards and share your style preferences with suppliers.
Prepare for the Unexpected: Wedding planning during a pandemic involves a certain level of uncertainty. Consider obtaining wedding insurance to provide some peace of mind. Read contracts carefully, paying close attention to force majeure clauses and COVID-related provisions. Remember that vendors may also be affected by the pandemic, and their availability cannot always be guaranteed.
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Postponing your wedding
Firstly, acknowledge your feelings and give yourself time to process the postponement. It's normal to feel disappointed, frustrated, or even grief-stricken. Accept these emotions and practice self-care to help you cope. Remember, you're not alone in this experience.
Next, communicate the change of plans to your guests as soon as possible. Send out postponement announcements or change-of-date cards, and be transparent about the reasons for the delay. Your guests will appreciate your honesty and understanding of the situation.
Now, it's time to start re-planning. Begin by setting a new date, bearing in mind that venues and vendors may have limited availability due to the high volume of rescheduled events. Consider choosing a weekday wedding, as these dates tend to be more available and cost-effective.
Once you've secured a new date, reach out to your vendors to discuss their availability and any necessary adjustments to your contracts. Many vendors are accommodating and willing to work with couples during this time, so be open about your concerns and work together to find solutions.
Finally, embrace the opportunity to make your wedding even more special. With a postponed wedding, you have extra time to refine your vision and add personal touches. Explore new ideas, whether it's a unique venue, a different theme, or special favours for your guests. Remember, this is still your dream wedding, and you can make it even more memorable.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, some boutiques have reopened and are allowing customers to try on wedding dresses in-store, but with limited guests. However, you may want to check with your local bridal shops as each county may have different guidelines and restrictions.
Stores may have limits on the number of people allowed in the store at one time. They may also be limiting their appointments and enforcing social distancing.
Yes, many bridal dress stores are offering virtual appointments and at-home try-ons.
